Wigle Whiskey Distillery Tour – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Discover the Wigle Whiskey Distillery Tour in Pennsylvania

Located in Pittsburgh’s historic Strip District, Wigle Whiskey is the heart of Pennsylvania’s modern craft spirits movement. As one of the first distilleries to open in the city since Prohibition, Wigle has revived Pittsburgh’s long-lost whiskey heritage — once the rye capital of America.

Visitors to Wigle’s distillery can step behind the barrels to experience every stage of the whiskey-making process, from grain to glass. You’ll learn how local, organic grains are mashed, fermented, and distilled into award-winning rye, bourbon, gin, and liqueurs — all crafted entirely on site. The tour concludes with a curated tasting flight in the distillery bar.

Why it’s special: Wigle isn’t just a distillery — it’s a piece of Pittsburgh’s comeback story. Family-owned and community-driven, the brand celebrates local agriculture, bold innovation, and the return of Pennsylvania rye whiskey to the national stage.

History of Wigle Whiskey

Wigle Whiskey was founded in 2011 by the Kane family, who were inspired by Pittsburgh’s forgotten distilling legacy. The name “Wigle” honors Philip Wigle, a key figure in the 1790s Whiskey Rebellion, a farmers’ uprising against federal taxes on spirits.

As one of the pioneers of America’s craft distilling renaissance, Wigle has since won hundreds of national awards for its spirits and its commitment to organic ingredients and local sourcing. Their flagship location remains a cornerstone of the city’s creative and culinary scene.

What You’ll See & Do on the Wigle Whiskey Tour

• Walk through the production floor to see fermenters, stills, and aging barrels in action.

• Learn how whiskey is made — from milling local grains to bottling small batches.

• Explore the aromas of fermenting mash and the science of distillation.

• Discover the history of Pennsylvania rye whiskey and its 18th-century roots.

• End your visit with a guided tasting flight of Wigle’s signature spirits.

Hands-On Elements: Guided tasting and optional cocktail-making workshops.
Photo/Video Policy: Allowed in public areas; restricted near production equipment.
Souvenirs & Extras: Bottle shop, gift boxes, limited-edition releases, and local merchandise.

Pricing of the Wigle Whiskey Tour

• Distillery Tour & Tasting: $22 per person (includes 3–4 spirit samples)

• Mini Tour & Tasting: $12 per person (30 minutes)

• Private Tours: Custom packages for groups of 10+ available by reservation
  Guests must be 21+ for tastings; under-21 visitors allowed with adult supervision.

Practical Info for Visiting Wigle Whiskey

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided tour followed by tasting session
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered Friday–Sunday, multiple time slots; closed major holidays
Audience: Adults 21+, whiskey lovers, foodies, and history enthusiasts
Accessibility: Fully accessible facility with ramps and restrooms
Safety & Restrictions: Closed-toe shoes recommended; no outside food or drink
Languages: English; private group tours available in Spanish
Group & School Visits: Adult group tours welcome; educational focus on craft and history
What to Bring/Wear: Valid photo ID, comfortable shoes, curiosity for flavor
Facilities: Tasting bar, bottle shop, restrooms, parking, nearby restaurants
Closures & Downtime: Closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas

Nearby

• Heinz History Center – Explore Pittsburgh’s industrial and cultural heritage.

• Strip District Market – Local food stalls and artisan vendors within walking distance.

• PNC Park – Catch a Pirates game or enjoy riverfront views nearby.

FAQs About Visiting the Wigle Whiskey Distillery Tour

Do I need a reservation?
Yes — advance reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

Are tastings included in the tour?
Yes, each adult guest enjoys a guided tasting of Wigle’s spirits at the end of the tour.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-drinkers are welcome to join and learn about the distilling process.

Can I buy bottles after the tour?
Absolutely. The distillery shop offers exclusive small-batch releases and cocktail kits.

Is the distillery family-friendly?
Yes, but tastings are limited to visitors aged 21 and over.